Enfield police give advice on how to keep burglars at bay

Enfield Council and the police are urging local people to take simple steps to guard against the risk of being targeted by burglars this winter.

As the evenings get darker, burglaries traditionally increase and criminals may be looking for homes that are easy to break into. In the coming weeks residents will be getting ready for Christmas and other seasonal celebrations which mean that they may have gifts and items around the house and on display.

During this period, properties remain in darkness for much longer periods which makes them easier to target, especially if there are no obvious signs someone is at home, so it is vital residents take some simple and effective precautions.

Although burglary in Enfield dropped 4.5% for the 12 months to September this year (compared with the same period in 2011) we want to take this opportunity to remind residents of our crime prevention advice for the dark winter nights. 

• Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you are only going out for a few minutes.
• Make sure you do not leave your car keys, valuables or ID documents near a door, letterbox or window.
• Leave some lights on if it will be dark before you get home or use timer lights.
• Mark or etch your property with your postcode, house or flat number or the first three letters of your house name.

Enfield Council's Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing and Public Health, Cllr Christine Hamilton, said: "Being burgled is a distressing experience and the memory of the offence can have a lasting impact on the families affected.

"Here in Enfield we take burglary seriously - we want people to feel safe in their homes and we are passionately committed to preventing this crime from happening by working closely with our partners in the police."

Chief Inspector Ian Kibblewhite, Operations said "As the nights draw in we are looking to everyone to take steps to reduce the likelihood of being burgled.

"If you have elderly or vulnerable neighbours, please make sure they are okay, and if they need any assistance please contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team.

"If you see suspicious activity please call police straight away."